Macewen's sign

Macewen's sign is a clinical sign which indicates the presence of hydrocephalus, brain abscess or meningitis. It is named after Sir William Macewen, a Scottish surgeon.

Definition

Macewen's sign is a clinical sign in which there is a peculiar hollow sound on percussion over a skull affected by hydrocephalus, brain abscess or meningitis. This is due to the thinning of the skull bone in these conditions.

Clinical significance

Macewen's sign is used in the diagnosis of hydrocephalus, brain abscess and meningitis. It is a valuable tool in the early detection of these conditions, especially in children. The sign is not specific and can be found in other conditions such as chronic subdural hematoma.

History

The sign is named after Sir William Macewen, a Scottish surgeon who described it in the late 19th century. Macewen was a pioneer in neurosurgery and his work on the brain and spinal cord has had a lasting impact on the field of neurology.

See also

• Hydrocephalus
• Brain abscess
• Meningitis
• Chronic subdural hematoma

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